What makes someone a "grown up"?

I'm 22 years old and for financial reasons, I'm living with my parents now. A couple days ago, my father told me to "grow up". He was just being a crab ass, but the topic has been bothering me for days... What makes someone an adult? I'm a highly inquisitive, emphatic, sense seeking person... Does it make me childish to be curious?

I just want to know your thoughts. I know there might be different definitions due to age and cultural differences, and I'd love to hear them!

Also, throw some religious ideas about this in there :) how can an extremely religious people with their imaginary friend in the sky be considered adults?

Replies to This Discussion

How about I just add it to the list of how I think I should act? I'm not into telling anyone else how to live. I'm just trying to find out how I can live my life without bothering anyone else too much :)

I'm 23, and have been bouncing between homes for a couple of years now, due to not having enough income to afford my own place. It was immaturity (not taking responsibility for my actions) that got me into the situation I am currently in, and by accepting responsibility for my choices I am slowly crawling out of that hole.

The concept of maturity should not be one of cultural ideals, but one of responsibility. Give your son a high five for awesomeness!